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Governor Steve Bullock last week announced that he is seeking applicants for the newly-created Get Outdoors Montana Advisory Council that will guide efforts of the Governor’s Office of Outdoor Recreation as it enhances Montana’s outdoor recreation economy.

“Montana is rich in outdoor recreation experience – making it the perfect place for recreation-based industries to thrive and for businesses to grow, while providing employees a way of life that cannot be manufactured,” said Gov. Bullock. “Montana is a leader in identifying the importance of outdoor recreation, and we encourage Montanans to join us in making sure it continues to be that way.”

Gov. Bullock signed an executive order creating the Get Outdoors Montana Advisory Council. The council will consist of members from the outdoor recreation industry, recreation user and interest groups, conservation and stewardship organizations, and local, tribal, state and federally employed land stewards.

The council is tasked with assisting with coordination of the many stakeholders and perspectives influencing Montana’s outdoor recreation economy, providing direct perspective and feedback through active communication, supporting the mission of the Office of Outdoor Recreation, providing resources and gathering data on recreation industry topics, and providing feedback for strategic action plans.

The Office of Outdoor Recreation was established in 2017 by Gov. Bullock to grow and enhance the state’s $7.1 billion outdoor recreation economy. Montana was the fourth state to create an outdoor recreation office and a total of 11 states now have such offices. The Office of Outdoor Recreation works collaboratively with other states, departments and agencies within Montana’s state government, as well as federal government agencies.

“The Governor’s Office of Outdoor Recreation supports the foundation of an economic powerhouse,” said Rachel VandeVoort, Director of the Office of Outdoor Recreation. “Our outdoor recreation economy contributes to over 70,000 jobs in Montana alone and accounts for an estimated 2 percent of the U.S. GDP, and as we help shape and support this important economic landscape of our future, I know this office, with the guidance of the Council, will serve the people of Montana for many years to come.”

Montanans are encouraged to apply to serve on the Get Outdoors Montana Advisory Council by Aug. 17, 2018. For the application, please visit

boards.mt.gov.